Orthodontics
Advanced specialty training in orthodontics, research, and academic leadership
The Advanced Graduate Education Program in Orthodontics at Harvard School of Dental Medicine provides rigorous specialty training in evidence-based, patient-centered orthodontic care integrated with advanced academic study. Residents pursue either a Master of Medical Sciences (MMSc) or Doctor of Medical Sciences (DMSc) degree in combination with the orthodontics certificate.
Training emphasizes orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning, interdisciplinary care, scientific inquiry, and leadership development. Residents develop advanced clinical and technical expertise grounded in a strong foundation in research and scholarship.
Graduates are prepared for specialty clinical practice, academic dentistry, research careers, and leadership roles within orthodontics and organized dentistry.
Degrees/certificate offered
Master of Medical Sciences (MMSc)/Certificate in Orthodontics
The usual length of this program is three years when combined with clinical specialty training.
Doctor of Medical Sciences (DMSc)/Certificate in Orthodontics
The length of this program is at minimum four years when combined with a clinical specialty, and may exceed this time period.
Apply now
To apply to the Orthodontics program, review the application requirements and follow the steps provided on the AGE admissions page.
Program director
Sercan Akyalcin
Sercan_Akyalcin@hsdm.harvard.edu
Program details and academic policies
- Both the MMSc and DMSc programs combine rigorous clinical training with advanced coursework in orthodontics, oral biology, biostatistics, and basic medical sciences.
- Clinical specialty requirements are satisfied through comprehensive patient care experiences designed to prepare students for careers in clinical teaching, research, and advanced patient care.
- For DMSc candidates, additional courses deepen the mastery of oral biology and related disciplines to support original, creative research.
- Students engage in interdisciplinary coursework, including oral biology, biostatistics, and medical sciences, tailored to develop expertise in oral health.
- The MMSc program emphasizes the development of clinician-scholars through didactic courses and research, culminating in a written NIH-format proposal, thesis preparation, and defense.
- The DMSc program goes further by fostering independent research skills, requiring a formal thesis proposal, qualifying exams, and a doctoral thesis defense under faculty mentorship.
- Both programs prepare students for academic careers, with a strong focus on developing teaching and research capabilities.
The program in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. For more information, please visit the Commission on Dental Accreditation website.